YOUNGSTERS took fundraising to new heights as they climbed half-a-mile’s worth of steps.

A team of 60 Junior Neighbourhood Wardens trekked up and down 1,829 stairs in five of Southampton’s tallest tower blocks to raise cash for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

Before beginning the challenge the schoolchildren took part in a warm-up activity along with cadets and instructors from Southampton’s Military Preparation College.

The challenge at Hampton, Havrrve, Oslo, Copenhagen and Rotterdam Towers in International Way, Weston, aimed to raise more than £1,000 for the lifesaving air ambulance which has been chosen as their charity of the year.

The event is part of a calendar of fundraising activities the group has put on to raise nearly £20,000 for the cause.

Nick Cross, head of housing services at the council, said: “The Five Tower Challenge is a fun and exciting way for kids from the Junior Neighbourhood Wardens and the local schools to raise funds for the Housing Services’ Charity of the Year, Air Ambulance, and get fit.

“Since starting our charity of the year, we’ve raised nearly £20,000, and hope to add to that with this event.”

The Junior Wardens scheme aims to engage seven to 12-year-olds in a range of community activities, projects and events across the city in a bid to develop more pride in Southampton’s communities and present a positive image of young Sotonians.